Playa Santa Teresa is the long sand beach running north from Playa Carmen, and it's the reason most people come: consistent waves, a wide beach for walking and some of the best sunsets on the Nicoya Peninsula. It's best for surfers with a little experience and for long beach walks; swimmers need to respect the currents.
What it's like
Playa Santa Teresa is a long stretch of open Pacific beach that runs north from the Playa Carmen intersection toward Playa Hermosa. The town grew up along the dirt road behind it, so you're never far from a path down to the sand. It isn't one single beach so much as a string of sandy bays broken up by low volcanic rock shelves, and the character changes as you walk: busier near the center of town, quieter and wilder as you head north.
The sand is pale, the water faces west, and at low tide the rocks turn into a maze of tide pools full of small fish, crabs and anemones. In the late afternoon half the town drifts down to watch the sun drop into the sea. Fishermen often stand out on the rocks at dusk, which is why so many photos of this beach look the way they do.
The surf
This is the area's main surf beach. Waves break along its length on shifting sandbanks, and it picks up almost any swell coming from the south or west, so there's nearly always something to ride. It tends to be bigger and punchier than Playa Carmen, which makes it better for surfers who can already catch and ride green waves. Lower tides often bring faster, hollower waves.
At the northern end, the point known as Suck Rock is heavier and faster, and it's best left to experienced surfers. Beginners usually start at Playa Carmen or Playa Hermosa and work their way up. See our surf guide for the full picture.
Swimming and safety
Treat this beach with respect. When there's a decent swell, rip currents form between the sandbanks and near the rocks, and they can pull even strong swimmers out quickly. Don't count on a lifeguard being on duty. Swim on small days, stay near other people, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the beach rather than straight in. The rocks are sharp and slippery, especially when wet, so wear sandals if you're exploring the tide pools.
Leave nothing of value on the sand while you're in the water, and don't leave bags in a parked car.
When to go
There's surf all year. The biggest and most consistent swells usually arrive in the green season, roughly May to November, while the dry season months from December to April bring smaller, cleaner days that suit learners. Early mornings tend to have the lightest wind. For sunsets, the dry season is hard to beat. Our best time to visit guide has more detail.
Getting there
Playa Santa Teresa sits right alongside the town. From anywhere on the main road, look for the public beach paths between properties. If you're staying up the hill, a short drive or ride down is easiest; parking near the beach paths is limited in high season.
Frequently asked questions
Is Playa Santa Teresa good for beginners?
On small days, yes, in the whitewater close to shore. On bigger days it's better for intermediate surfers. Most surf schools take complete beginners to Playa Carmen or Playa Hermosa.
Is it safe to swim at Playa Santa Teresa?
It can be on calm days, but rip currents are common when the surf is up. Swim near other people, avoid the areas next to rocks, and stay out of the water when the waves are big.
Where's the best place to watch the sunset?
Anywhere along the beach works. The rocky points give you something in the foreground, and the beach paths in the center of town are the easiest to reach.
Are there tide pools?
Yes. At low tide the volcanic rock shelves along the beach hold pools with small fish, crabs and other sea life. Check a tide chart and wear sandals.
